Past and present students, parents, grandparents, families, staff and special guests came together for the inaugural Generations Breakfast, celebrating the connections, memories and shared experiences that continue to unite the JPC community across generations.
The breakfast provided an opportunity to reflect on the College’s history while celebrating the families who have returned to JPC generation after generation.
In his welcome, Principal John Visentin spoke about the significance of seeing families choose JPC for their children after experiencing the College themselves.
Seeing generations of families choose John Paul College is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact our community has on the lives of our students.
Guest speakers and sisters Sarah, Class of 2001, and Danielle, Class of 2002, shared their family’s long-standing connection to JPC. Four Stanistreet sisters attended the College between 1996 and 2009, while Sarah’s children Layla and Archie are now continuing the family tradition. Danielle’s son Thomas also commenced Year 7 this year.
Reflecting on her own experience as a student, Sarah recalled how quickly JPC became a place where her family felt a sense of belonging.
It was clear early on that this school was a welcoming place, we found our people and it soon felt like home.
Danielle spoke about the special experience of returning to the College with her own child and seeing the next generation begin their JPC journey.
After coming to the school for our tour, we were warmly welcomed and it felt like coming back home.
The breakfast also recognised families with significant multi-generational connections to the College, including the Mulder, Horsman and Alford families and the Verity family. The Stanistreet, Christopherson and Duncan families were also acknowledged for their longstanding connections to JPC.
The morning was a celebration of the people and relationships that have shaped the College over many years. As Principal John Visentin reflected:
A college’s legacy is created by its people; the students who have walked these grounds, the families who have supported one another, the teachers who have inspired generations, and the community that continues to believe in the value of education grounded in faith, service and belonging.
While celebrating the past, the breakfast also looked towards the future, with Mr Visentin sharing an update on the College’s continued growth and development, alongside the ongoing work to renew its Vision, Mission, Values and House System.
The inaugural Generations Breakfast was a fitting celebration of the many families who have helped shape the College’s story – and those who will continue that story for generations to come.
Sarah captured this enduring connection in her closing reflection:
I truly believe that once you are a John Paul College family, the warmth, connection and school spirit never leaves you.